By Arthur Virgo

The Reds' official website offers advice on the cold weather, pickpockets and potential problems with police at the Petrovsky Stadium ahead of Thursday's Europa League encounter

Liverpool have advised fans to refrain from antagonising the police ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash with Zenit St Petersburg in Russia.

The Merseyside club have issued advice for travelling supporters through their official website which underlines the need to carry identification at all times and warns of the dangers of pickpockets and drink-spiking.

More ominously, the Reds also hint in the official statement at the potentially hostile atmosphere awaiting fans at the Petrovsky Stadium.

It reads: "Security at the stadium will be strict and uncompromising - refrain from antagonising the police even if you believe you are in the right.

"Access to the stadium can be slow. There will be body searches at the entrance to the ground and then ticket checks at the entrance to the stand. To avoid a last-minute queues please try to get to the stadium early.

"No bottles and cans are allowed to be brought into the ground. Rules on alcohol at the stadium are strict. Drinking alcohol inside the stadium is prohibited. Stadium security will not allow entry to anyone they consider to have been drinking heavily."

The notice also points out the lack of protection against the freezing temperatures provided at the stadium, adding: "The temperature can be very low mid-February, so dress warm. Note that Petrovsky Stadium is an old stadium with no roof and heating."

The second leg of the last 32 meeting is due to take place at Anfield the following Thursday, with the winner facing either Basel or Dnipro in the next round.